Orphanage in Benin

  Benin

• Other Cities in Benin: 
Cotonou

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Flexible, year round

Description: Home to 115 children, this orphanage is dedicated to providing each child with the care and support he or she deserves. With the majority of orphans aged 4-18 years old, there is a strong emphasis on attending school, completing assignments, skill building and recreational activities. The younger infants and toddlers are entertained with games, lessons, music, and art projects.   

Volunteers can assist the teachers in the pre-school or primary school with teaching English, drawing, sports activities, handwriting and any other subjects the volunteer takes interest in. While working with the babies, volunteers will help entertain them with singing songs, creative activities, assisting in feeding, bathing, sleeping, giving medicine, and developing imagination activities. Volunteers are encouraged to be very creative in their ideas and implementation of projects.

This volunteer project an unmatched opportunity to get to know Benin and the Beninois on a personal level, and contribute to programs that are making a real difference in the lives of the women and young children it serves. You will work side by side with Beninois on this locally designed and run project. You will stay with a carefully screened and welcoming host family, giving you insight into daily life in Benin.

Our staff in the US are experienced volunteers themselves who are happy to share their experiences and expertise with prospective volunteers. Our partner staff in Benin are friendly, caring and dedicated to ensuring that all volunteers have a rewarding experience. You will be met upon arrival in Benin and will receive a three day orientation to the culture and project. A staff member in Benin will be available to you throughout your program.

Qualifications: Experience or education in counseling, teaching and/or childcare is helpful, but not required. An intermediate level of French is required. French lessons are available prior to the volunteer project for an additional fee.

Cost in US$: Costs start at USD1,490 for a two week program

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Greenheart Travel volunteers are flexible, caring travelers who want to have a positive impact on the places and people they visit.

Age Range: 18 and over

This Program is open to American and Canadian Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Benin Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Greenheart Travel's Mission Statement: Greenheart Travel is a division of the Center for Cultural Interchange. Founded in 1985, the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding, academic development and world peace. Greenheart is CCI's way of promoting the health and welfare of the earth and its people through cultural exchange, ethical travel, responsible consumerism, and community service.

Year Founded: 1985